ANSWERS: 1
  • Many people have been in the situation of needing something on their home computer while they are away from home, whether it is a file for work, for school or just for personal use. However, there is no need to return home to get that file. If you have Windows XP or later, an Internet connection and some time, you can gain remote access to your PC at home or at work as long as you have completed some simple set up before you leave your house.

    Remote Computer

    The first step in getting on your home computer remotely is to make sure the home computer is set up for remote access. To do this, log in in as the computer administrator. Once you are logged in successfully, select "My Computer" from the Start menu or your Desktop and then click on "Properties." Under "Properties," select the option "Remote." Under "Remote Desktop," select the option that will "Allow Users to Connect Remotely to This Computer." Click "OK" on the prompt that comes up and write down the full name of the remote computer.

    Client Computer

    The second step is to set up the computer you will use to gain remote access (the client computer) to the home computer (called the remote computer in Step 1). Insert your Windows XP disc into the CD-ROM drive. Once the disk is inserted and the Welcome screen appears, select the option that allows you to "Perform Additional Tasks." From the next screen, choose "Set Up Remote Desktop." The system will then walk you through using a number of prompts. Complete the prompts to finish the installation of the necessary elements on the computer you are going to use to access your home computer.

    Remote Login

    Once you have successfully set up both the home computer and the client computer, get remote access by logging in to the remote computer from the client computer. To do this, on the client computer select Start, then "Programs" and then "Accessories." From the "Accessories" menu choose "Communications," the "Remote Desktop" and finally "Connection." A prompt will ask you for the remote computer's name. Type the name of the remote computer into the prompt. Another prompt will appear on the remote computer asking if the access is acceptable. You will then be granted access as long as no one is at the terminal to deny it. If no one is at the remote computer, the prompt will disappear after a couple of seconds. You will have full access to the remote computer as long as someone does not log into the computer at the remote location. If you have difficulty accessing the remote computer, you should double to make sure that both systems are using a version of Windows XP or later. Often, firewalls will keep you from connecting remotely.

    Other Operating Systems

    If you do not have Windows XP, you may need to find or purchase a special program that allows you to gain access to your computer. These programs, such as MobileMe for Mac, may cost money or have a monthly subscription fee.

    Source:

    PC World: Windows Tips: Access Your Desktop From Wherever You May Be

    Ask Leo: How Can I Access My Windows XP Machine Remotely?

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